Saudi Arabia's Passionate Football Fans and Their Love for the Game

Football is not just a game in Saudi Arabia; it is a way of life. The excitement that fills the stadiums, the chants that echo through the streets, and the pride that fans feel for their teams create a vibrant culture around the sport. From young children kicking a ball in the streets to adults passionately discussing match strategies, football is woven into the very fabric of Saudi society. This deep-rooted love for the game is evident in the stories of dedicated fans who live and breathe football.

Take Omar Khayyat, for instance. At 29 years old, he is a devoted supporter of Al-Ittihad, one of the most popular football clubs in the country. He recalls his first live match experience as a young member of the Al-Ittihad swimming team, where attending football matches became a cherished tradition. “Al-Ittihad isn’t just a team, it’s like our homeland club,” he expressed. The thrill of being part of the crowd, chanting “One, one, one, Itti is No. 1,” left a lasting impression on him. Khayyat believes that Saudi Arabia is ready to host the 2034 World Cup, stating, “Our society thrives on football.”

Another passionate fan, Nawaf Bakhsh, 25, shares his unforgettable experiences supporting Al-Ittihad. He has attended numerous matches, including thrilling encounters against teams like the Pohang Steelers and Al-Ahli from Egypt. “The atmosphere was electric,” he reminisced about the Club World Cup match against Auckland City. For Bakhsh, the feeling of being in the stadium, cheering for his team, is indescribable.

Abdullah Al-Amir, a 21-year-old Al-Hilal supporter, also has his share of memorable matches. He started attending games in 2019 and recalls the excitement of the league-deciding game against Al-Faisaly. “I love Al-Hilal because it’s a legacy passed down from my father,” he shared. Al-Amir believes that hosting the World Cup would showcase Saudi Arabia’s development and offer a glimpse into the country’s rich culture.

Fellow fan Sultan Al-Sanad echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the potential benefits of hosting the World Cup. “This will be a great opportunity to show the world Vision 2030,” he stated, referring to the nation’s ambitious plan for economic and social development. Al-Sanad believes that Saudi Arabia is well-equipped to handle such a significant event, given its experience in organizing major gatherings.

Some fans take their passion a step further by forming supporters’ groups. Atif Bawazeer, a member of the Saudi National Team Fans Council, highlights the ongoing development in the Kingdom. “With large stadiums and more under construction, the government’s support strengthens the Saudi league and economy,” he noted. Bawazeer believes that the enthusiasm of Saudi fans was evident during the last World Cup and the Asian Cup, as they rallied behind their team.

The love for football in Saudi Arabia is not just about the game; it is about community, culture, and identity. As the nation looks forward to potentially hosting the World Cup, it is clear that the passion of its fans will play a crucial role in showcasing the vibrant spirit of Saudi Arabia to the world. Football is more than a sport here; it is a celebration of life, unity, and pride.